When to Harvest Outdoor Pot Plant

Outdoor cannabis cultivation can yield a plentiful harvest when done right. Marijuana plants require sufficient light, water, and nutrients throughout the growing season to produce large and potent buds. Knowing when to harvest outdoor pot plants is crucial for growers to ensure that their buds are matured, dried out, and ready for consumption. The timing of harvest can impact the potency, flavor, aroma, and overall quality of the harvested buds.

Flower Ripeness

The most significant indicator of a cannabis plant's readiness for harvest is the ripeness of its flowers. Most cannabis strains need around eight or nine weeks of flowering before maturity. Some strains, however, may require a longer flowering period of up to 12 weeks. To tell whether the buds are ripe or not, inspect the small trichomes (crystals) that cover the flowers. These crystals will look like tiny mushrooms and should appear cloudy, with some turning an amber color. If the trichomes are still clear, the buds are not ready for harvest.

Color and Texture

Another way to assess harvest readiness is through the color and texture of the buds. Mature buds will be plump and densely packed. They will also have an intense aroma and be sticky to touch. The pistils or hairs on the buds' surface will start to curl and turn a rusty color. The leaves surrounding the buds will also turn yellow and progressively dry out. The ideal time to harvest is when around two-thirds of the pistils have turned brown or orange, and the leaves have yellowed.

Timing of Harvest

The timing of outdoor cannabis harvest will largely depend on the cultivator's location, the desired potency and effect, and the strain being grown. Growers in northern regions may need to harvest their plants earlier due to shorter growing seasons, while those in southern regions can harvest a bit later. Similarly, harvesting cannabis earlier will produce a more energetic and cerebral effect, while harvesting later will result in a more sedative and relaxing experience.

Drying and Curing

Once the buds have been harvested, they require drying and curing before being consumed. This process allows the buds to remove their moisture content without losing potency and flavor. Cannabis buds should be hung upside down in a dark room with proper airflow and humidity control for seven to ten days. Then, the buds should be sealed in airtight jars and stored in a cool and dark environment for one to three weeks for curing. Proper drying and curing will enhance the buds' potency, flavor, aroma, and overall quality.

Conclusion

Harvesting outdoor cannabis plants requires a bit of experience and knowledge of the signs of ripeness. Paying attention to color, trichome development, and desired effects will ensure that cannabis buds are harvested at the optimal time. Proper drying and curing will draw out the buds' best qualities and provide for an enjoyable smoking or vaping experience.